Content

Several initial tests were undertaken in order to find the best way to remove corrosion and deposits from the surface.

Capillary and laser technology tests revealed to be inappropriate for the very heterogeneous surfaces at hand.

Not only did they remove the layers which needed to be taken away, but they also removed the underlying patinas.

Initial tests also had to be performed for the choice of the protective final coating agents. New copper plates were covered with specific types of waxes and lacquers and then exposed to atmospheric pollutants for the duration of two years. Incralac® with a final wax coating showed the best results for the copper.

All technical tests pertaining to the materials were performed by the scientific department of the Center for Restoration of the Swiss National Museum.